Current Approaches to the Treatment of Pediatric Soft Tissue Sarcomas: Rhabdomyosarcoma and Nonrhabdomyosarcoma Soft Tissue Sarcomas

: Soft tissue sarcomas (STS) are rare mesenchymal tumors representing up to 7% of all cancers in children. In the pediatric population, rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is the most common histology while the remainder is composed of several distinct histotypes collectively known as nonrhabdomyosarcoma soft tissue sarcoma (NRSTS). RMS and NRSTS have individualized staging and treatment paradigms. Through cooperative group clinical trials, our understanding of STS and outcomes have improved. However, patients with distant metastases and who relapse continue to fare poorly. Global collaborations are necessary to make greater progress for this highest risk population.